Assistive Technology for People with Brain Injury...2 Solutions: Assistive Technology Introduction: How to use this booklet This is not an ‘all inclusive’ manual for assistive

SOLUTIONS: Assistive Technology for People with Brain Injury

IDPHIowa Departmentof Public Health

Rev. 12/2018

Solutions: Assistive Technology 1

Contents Introduction: How to use this booklet .......................................................................................................... 2

Where to find Assistive Technology.............................................................................................................. 3

Memory Aids ................................................................................................................................................. 4

Focus and Redirection ................................................................................................................................. 10

Organization Supports ................................................................................................................................ 12

Sensory Assistance ...................................................................................................................................... 14

Communication Tools ................................................................................................................................. 16

Safety Tips ................................................................................................................................................... 18

Health Help ................................................................................................................................................. 22

Emotions and Mood .................................................................................................................................... 23

Supporting Socialization.............................................................................................................................. 24

Inclusive Recreation .................................................................................................................................... 25

Computer Access ........................................................................................................................................ 27

“There’s an app for that” ............................................................................................................................ 29

Where to go from here ............................................................................................................................... 32

Publication Date: January 29, 2016; Revision Date: December 3, 2018

This booklet is available online at: http://www.easterseals.com/ia/shared-components/document-library/assistive-technology-for.pdf

This booklet is project of the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Iowa Advisory Council

on Brain Injuries, produced with assistance from the Easterseals Iowa Assistive Technology

Program.

This development of this publication was supported by Grant #90TBSG0018 from the

Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Administration for Community Living, AOD

Traumatic Brain Injury State Demonstration Grant Program. The contents are the sole

responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of DHHS.

http://www.easterseals.com/ia/shared-components/document-library/assistive-technology-for.pdf

2 Solutions: Assistive Technology

Introduction: How to use this booklet This is not an ‘all inclusive’ manual for assistive technology. It is a starting point to

introduce what assistive technology is and how it can help. Each section of the booklet

will give examples of devices for specific tasks or activities. For additional details and

resources please see the “Where to go from here” section in the back of this booklet.

A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) may cause many different symptoms: physical, sensory

(sight, hearing or touch), cognitive (thinking), communication, swallowing, and

behavioral. These symptoms may greatly impair the person’s ability to live

independently. When choosing AT devices, the task to be completed, the individual’s

strengths and preferences, and setting where the task will be done need to be

considered. Therefore, the selection of AT is performed on an individual basis. Not

everything in this manual will work for every individual.

In some cases, selection of AT devices can be done without help, like selecting a

medicine reminder or a one-handed can opener. But for some devices a professional

may need to be consulted, for example:

- Physical Therapists help select the correct wheelchair.

- Speech Language Pathologists help identify the tools needed to effectively

communicate.

- Occupational Therapists give options about what AT devices may help at

home or other settings with activities such as dressing, eating, or day-to-day

tasks.

- School Counselors assist with setting-up classroom and transitional

accommodations.

- Area Education Agency staff help identify aids and software for use in the

classroom and when doing homework.

- Vocational Rehabilitation counselors assist with obtaining AT for use in a

work or college setting.

- Recreational Therapists assist in adapting a favorite recreational activity.

AT should be used according to the direction from the manufacturer or training received

from a professional. Serious injury can occur if it’s used incorrectly.

While specific name brand devices are be shown in this booklet, it does not imply

endorsement or recommendations. It is for illustrative purposes only. All items

pictured in this booklet are available for demonstration and loan through the

Easterseals Iowa Assistive Technology Center.


Where to find Assistive Technology What is assistive technology (AT)? The Americans with Disabilities Act defines assistive

technology as “any device that supports an individual with a disability in independently

performing a specific task.” This can be a device, approach, or adaptation to the

performance of the task. Any device or strategy that helps at home, school, or in the

community can be considered assistive technology.

AT can be purchased in a store or online or AT can be homemade.

AT ranges from simple devices, “low tech” or “no tech” devices (for example, a spoon

with built-up handle or drinking glass with rubber bands for gripping) to more

specialized or “high tech” devices (for example, a power wheelchair or home monitoring

system).

The more specialized an item, the more likely a professional such as a physical therapist

or occupational therapist will be involved in assisting to identify an appropriate device,

ordering the item, and training how to use it safely and effectively.

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) is a term used to describe items such as canes,

wheelchairs, and shower chairs. A doctor or other medical professional may recommend

their use. These items are often ordered through a specialty company. If insurance is

unable to pay for the item, used equipment may be available through local loan closets

or the Easterseals Iowa Assistive Technology Program.

Personal Notes:


Memory Aids Memory difficulty is a common symptom after a brain injury. Memory aids are strategies or

tools used to prompt or remind an individual when, where, or how a task should be completed.

These aids can also help reduce some confusion an individual may experience as well.

For some individuals, this might be as simple as using a hand written note and for others it may

be utilizing a feature, such as calendar alerts, in a smart phone. Visual cues or changes to the

environment can also be used as memory aids.

No-tech memory supports can range from a post-it note to a dry-erase board. These supports

can be put in specific places to remind a person to do a specific task. For example, putting a

reminder to “check stove before leaving” on the front door or printing the day’s schedule to put

on a student’s desk.

Tips and Notes: The use of these tips and tricks to aid in memory should be

implemented in moderation. If all suggestions are used at one

time it may become overwhelming and not effective. Consider

starting small with just one type of support, like the Post-it notes,

and use only a couple the first time.

Many people use memory aids in daily life and those experiences

may help determine what will work best for the individual after a

brain injury. For example, if the individual preferred to have a

written calendar or lists before their injury, they may be more

successful with using those methods after their brain injury.

Post-it Notes

An example of a no-tech memory support is using a

post-it note as a reminder. Post-it notes come in many

shapes, sizes, and colors. (Image to left)


Medication Managers come in many shapes and sizes from a pocket size to one for a week or

month of medications. Medication can be sorted and placed inside and used at the correct time

(specific day or specific time of day). There are versions that have timers. There are electronic

versions that dispense only one dose at a time.

Tips and Notes: Check with a local pharmacy to see what services they provide

that might make organizing medications easier. Some pharmacies

can set up medications in packets for the specific date and time

they are to be taken. There are also services to have medications

loaded into a dispenser that reminds the individual when it is time

to take their medication and can alert a family member if the dose

is missed.

Social stories help by showing a real-life example of a task or place. These stories may be

written for a specific person and task. For example, a social story can demonstrate a morning

routine and how to get up and ready for the day.

Monthly Pill Organizer (low tech)

This monthly organizer has compartments for each

day with divisions for morning, noon, and evening

pills. The compartments are large and have large

tabs that are easy to open. (Image to left)

Social Stories

A “social story” is a story written to show

actions that may be taken for a specific task.

The example shown here is an excerpt of a

“Bedtime” social story which shows the

actions two young boys should take in order

to do their bedtime tasks. (Image to left)


Talking items, like a talking photo frame or medicine container may help reduce confusion.

Some individuals are auditory learners and do best by hearing an instruction or reminder. Video

can be taken on a smart phone or tablet of verbal instructions, directions, or reminders that can

be used at another time.

Signs can be placed on doors or objects to identify their purpose, to help with confusion due to

orientation in a home or building. For example, if confusing the basement door and the

bathroom door is a problem, place a photo of stairs on the basement door and a photo of a

toilet or sink on the bathroom door.

Talking Rx

Talking Rx is base for a medicine bottle. There is a button on

the inside of the base that can be pressed. While pressing the

button a recording will be played. The recording can be done

by a caregiver, pharmacist, or individual to remind themselves

of the appropriate medication instructions. (Image to left)

Door Sign with Image

Door signs may be helpful to assist with confusion. Images

or braille can be used to identify a room. A sign that says

“Restroom” with an image of a toilet may be helpful to

avoid confusion. (Image to left)


Alarms and Clocks can be used as memory aids. Alarms can vary a large alarm clock with sonic

boom and flashing lights to a small vibrating band worn on the wrist. Alarms can be used to

remind an individual of a certain task in conjunction with a written calendar or recorded

message.

Reminders may be helpful aids to memory. Choosing the appropriate clock is important to

meet specific needs. Consider the size of the numbers and display, the language (if clock has

verbalization settings) and alarm sound function (consider vibration or sonic book if hearing is

difficult).

Fitness Tracking Bands

The UP4 Fitness Tracker is a wearable device that

tracks wellness data as well as provides silent,

vibrating alarm (Image to left). Other devices that

are similar in function include the Garmin devices,

Fitbit devices, and Apple iWatch.

Reminder Rosie Clock

This clock can record a personalized

message to be used as a reminder for

medication, appointments, or other tasks.

(Image to left)


Smart devices are electronic devices, such as smart phones and tablets, which connect to other

devices or networks through internet (Wi-Fi or data) or Bluetooth connectivity. Smart devices

can be utilized to share and update calendars, contacts, and applications with other devices.

Some examples of applications are provided below; this is meant as a starting point for what’s

available. Please view the “There’s an App for that” section for instructions on how to search

for apps.

Cost: Task Android IPhone

Free: Organization Evernote Evernote

Free: Family Life Organizer Cozi Cozi

Free: Emergency Organizer ICE (In Case of Emergency) ICE (In Case of Emergency)

Tips and Tricks: The camera function can also be used to take a picture of a

location or written instruction to use at a later time, such as where

the car is parked. Smart devices can also be used to video record

directions or instructions so the user can review it at a later time.

There are apps that can be used on a smart device that show

location, similar to a GPS device.

Smart Phone

Smart phones will vary by type and availability

depending on the cell phone provider. In addition to

making calls, these phones typically include a

programmable calendar, contact list, and alarm clock.

Other features may include a camera and ability to

download apps. (Image of phone to left)


Automation in the home can be used to support memory. Automatic lights can turn on when a

person walks into a room, and turn off automatically when there is no longer movement in the

room. Automatic stove shut off, such as the I-Guard Stove, can be used to improve safety in the

kitchen. Programmable thermostats can be used to control the temperature.

Tips and Tricks: If safely using the oven or stove top due to a tendency to walk

away and forgetting food that is cooking is a problem, consider

setting a timer and carrying it in a pocket. Timers can come in

many shapes and sizes, most smart phones even have a timer as a

part of their alarm functions. The timer could be set to vibrate in a

pocket if the surroundings are noisy.

A Cap-Tel phone helps a variety of people by allowing individuals

to read what is being said (similar to close captioning on a

television) and can be printed after the call is completed. This may

be helpful for calls with a doctor or pharmacist or any call that will

have detailed information.

Smart Home Technology

Amazon Alexa and Smart Plugs are examples

of Smart Home Technologies (Image to left).

Smart Home Technologies may simplify a

variety of tasks of daily living such as turning

on a fan with the use of a voice command.

Other options include Google Home and

Hive Smart Home.


Focus and Redirection Maintaining focus on a specific task may become difficult after a brain injury. Finding

appropriate devices to assist with maintaining focus ore redirecting attention to another task

may be important for use at home or in the community.

Environmental changes may help focus attention. Consider moving an activity to a quieter

location or away from windows to reduce distractions from movement and other activity. There

are several devices that are designed to be manipulated or “fidgeted” with as an energy release

rather than no longer performing another task.

Tips and Notes: The Safco Runtz Figet chair is a type of larger device that

allows for full body movement. Other ‘fidgets’ can include a foot

rest that bounces, a swivel seat, and much more. Be sure

these full body fidgets are used safely and do not become tripping

or falling hazards.

Pencil-top Fidget

A small, pencil-top fidget attaches to the eraser end of

a pencil and can be used as a silent energy outlet or a

redirection that may assist in focusing on a task.

(Image to left)

Calendar with Images

The calendar shown here has a picture of the

action that is on the daily tasking list. The action is

“wash dishes” and the picture shows an individual

placing a plate and a cup into the kitchen sink.

(Image to left)


Schedules or tasking lists can be used to support redirection back to specific tasks. List the

steps or information that needs to be done, then cross them off after the task is completed.

Using real-life pictures of the task may be more helpful if reading is difficult.

Noise cancelling headphones or calming sounds may support attention or focus and reduce

distracting sounds. White noise (such as the sound of waterfalls, crickets, or rain) can be played

to help drown out any distracting background sounds to aid in concentration or relaxation.

White noise can also be used to help someone fall asleep at night.

Tips and Notes: When choosing a noise cancelling headphone, consider the user’s

preference in regards to size, tightness, and volume. Some

individuals prefer ‘earbuds’ to the headphone design and others

prefer the feeling of the headphones.

Additional Notes and Questions Regarding Focus and Redirection:

Noise-cancelling headphones

Noise-cancelling headphones are available in many

sizes, shapes, and colors. The ones shown here are

placed around the top of the head and have pads that

cover the ear. (Image to left)


Organization Supports Organization is also a good idea to keep floor space clear to reduce falls or for developing a

routine of where items are kept to make finding them easier.

Creating an organized space may support memory or attention. Other options for storage

include using baskets on countertops, and shelving or hooks by the door for frequently used

items.

Tips and Notes: There are many publications available that provide suggestions

and tips for staying organized as well as other tasks of daily living.

One example is Brain on a String by PJ Long (Brain on a String and

other strategies for staying organized when gray matter isn’t

working like it used to, 2005). Long provides suggestions such as,

“Grand Central Station: Set up ONE center for household

information processing, and handle all paperwork here; sort, sent,

and record info in the same spot”.

Another idea is to use color to help identify the difference

between one tub or folder and another. This could be used with

bills or appointments. Consider using a different container or

folder for bills to be paid and bills already paid.

Labeled and Color-Coded Totes

Totes are stackable plastic containers that

may be purchased with a fitting lid. These

can be stacked on top of one another or

placed on shelves.

Using labels or images of what is inside the

container may help the user find the stored

item they are seeking. Using a color-coding

system may also support organization.

(Image to left)


Contacts can be saved with their image on a smart phone to aid in memory and organization.

All information, including email address, home address, and other information for knowing who

the contact is or with can be saved with the contact.

Email and other electronic calendars may help with staying organized. These calendars can be

shared or synced with other devices, like an iPad. Some applications allow multiple people to

view a specific calendar or calendar entry. This may be helpful when planning transportation or

setting up reminders.

Smartphone Contact with Image

Contacts can be saved with their picture, phone

number, and email. On some devices (such as an

Android device) the contacts can be grouped, so all

work contacts are together and all family contacts are

together.

A distinctive ringtone can also be set for each group

or each individual contact. (Image to left)

Electronic Calendar

An electronic calendar on a smart device can be

edited by typing or using voice-to-text. Events can be

shared between contacts. Directions and maps can

also be saved with the event.

Calendar events can be set to send an alert in advance

of an event. These can be used with alarms to notify a

day or an hour before the event. (Image to left)


Sensory Assistance

People may get over-stimulated (frustrated and angry or excited and wiggly) or under-

stimulated (low energy or tired) in response to different things and places. If the situation is

one that can be avoided, an individual should be encouraged to move away from the situation.

Tips and Notes: Be mindful of sensory stimulus. When possible, anticipate sensory

experience that may cause discomfort such as loud noises,

flickering lights, or a variety of scents or perfumes. Because

fatigue is a common experience after brain injury, it may be

important to limit activities and plan for breaks.

Sensory and relaxing music may be used to redirect and help calm someone in an over-

whelming place. Devices to reduce the stimulation can be utilized to reduce the noise, visual

stimulus, or physical stimulus.

Tips and Notes: A home-made version of the B-Calm System can be created by

using noise canceling headphones or earbuds, devices to play

music (such as an iPod, iPad, phone, or MP3 player), and recording

of sounds or music.

Choose music that is calming and slow paced; for example, music

used on the B-Calm System includes a heartbeat, flowing water,

crickets chirping, or gentle wind sounds.

Sound Spa: Clock Radio

The Homedics Sound Spa provides dual alarms and

projects the time on the wall. The clock also allows

the user to choose from a variety of soothing noises

including ocean, forest, and running water to

support overall relaxation any time the user desires

or at a set scheduled time. (Image to left)


Sleep is important for overall health and wellness throughout the day. A sleep schedule can

impact how someone functions during the day. There are a variety of methods that can be used

to track sleep and to set healthy sleeping goals. A notebook can be used as a sleep journal or a

device, like the Fit Bit, can be used.

Additional Notes on Organization and Sensory Supports:

Apple iWatch Sleep Tracking

Devices, such as the Appe iWatch, Fit Bit, and Garmin

Vivo-Fit track sleep, as well as daily activity. The

movement during the period of time that the device is

in ‘sleep mode’ is tracked. Record of sleep movement

is then summarized through an application on a smart

phone or tablet, in the form of a graph, showing

activity. (Image to left)


Communication Tools

Low-tech devices may be utilized for individuals who have difficulty speaking. The use of a

communication purse or wallet with photos and words to describe needs, desires, or

instructions may be used to aid in communication. A dry erase board can be used to write or

draw images to express ideas and questions.

Picture boards are used for general communication. A person can use an electronic

communication board by pressing on a specific image to have it spoken. For example, if an

individual wants an apple but is unable to communicate this, they can press the button with a

picture of an apple and the electronic voice will speak “apple”. There are similar non-electronic

versions of communication boards. When using non-electronic versions, the “listener” must

look at the board to see which symbols the “speaker” is pointing at.

Communication Purse

The communication purse is a thin, pink purse

that has slots on the inside for pictures,

stickers, or other paper based communication

techniques. These can be removed from the

purse to make a request. (Image to left)

Talk To Me

Talk to Me is a communication board that

electronically speaks the word that is

represented by a picture or text on each button.

(Image to left)


High-tech augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices are utilized for

individuals who desire to have specific individualized options for communicating their thoughts

and are able to manipulate the device. A Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) can be helpful in

identifying an appropriate device, programming words and phrases onto the device, and

teaching usage of the device. For more information and instruction on how to search for apps,

see the “There’s an App for that” section of this booklet. The iPad pictured above, is enclosed in

the “Easy Grip iPad Case”.

Tips and Notes: There are many versions of High-tech augmentative and

alternative communication devices such as Dynavox, and Nova

Chat. An SLP can help identify which device might work best.

Hearing aids can also be a communication support to hear what is

being said by another person. An audiologist can help test and fit

the device. Earbuds and amplifiers can be used to make the

sounds a little louder.

A voice amplifier help make spoken words louder if there is limited

air or diaphragm support to produce a loud sound.

IPad

An iPad can be used as a speech

communication device, as well as an aid for

many other tasks. Apps can be downloaded

such as TapToTalk, Voice4U (pictured), Verbally,

and many more. (Image to left)


Safety Tips There are a variety of items to support safety, these items can range from tools to help reduce

falls to tricks to help reduce fatigue such as sitting on a stool while doing the dishes to preserve

energy.

Pipe covers, devices that limit extreme water temperature, and temperature gauges may

benefit individuals that are unable to feel when water is too hot or too cold. Consider covering

exposed pipes, to limit contact burns.

Talking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms benefit people that become overwhelmed by loud

noises or have negative responses to flashing lights, like seizures.

Pipe Covers

Pipe covers can be purchased and placed around

pipes or installed during pipe installation. These

covers reduce the external temperature of the pipes.

It is especially important to cover exposed pipes under

bathroom or kitchen sinks. (Image to left)

Talking Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Talking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms may

benefit people that prefer a spoken warning or

directions to the sound of an alarm. When smoke or

carbon monoxide is detected, this alarm speaks the

warning in a calm voice. (Image to left)


Knowing what to do in an emergency is extremely important. It is also important to have

emergency contact information, medication needs, and personal identification available for

emergency response teams. Having this information available in a notebook or saved onto a

jump drive that an individual carries, will help in the event of an emergency. PrepIowans is a

resource to help develop an emergency plan. More information available at:

https://www.uihealthcare.org/ucedd/self-advocacy/emergency-preparedness/

Weather radios and other safety precautions are useful tools when enjoying the outdoors.

Outdoor recreation may take many forms, from walking or biking to playing or enjoying sports.

Knowing what the weather will be is important to ensuring safety. Many avenues can be used

to recognize and know weather conditions. For example, watching the news in the morning or

having a weather radio with alert programed for a specific area.

Emergency Plan

An emergency plan is a plan that

outlines the actions that should be

taken during an emergency situation.

All emergencies should be discussed

from fire to tornado or breaking and

entry. (Image to left)

Energizer Weather Alert Radio

The Energizer weather alert radio is battery powered

with an LED light that can be utilized in dim

conditions. The radio allows for the user to hear

reports on weather conditions. (Image to left)


Fall prevention is very important when talking about safety in the home. The use of area or

throw rugs may create additional tripping hazards and their removal entirely should be

considered.

The appropriate durable medical equipment such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs and having

ample floor space to move around, may reduce the risk of falling. Consider the use of handheld

shower heads, grab bars, and shower benches to reduce the risk of falls in the bathroom.

Alarm mats may be used to notify a care provider or family member of movement. These mats

can be placed in doorways or next to a bed and will sound an alarm when pressure is placed on

the mat be an individual standing or moving their body onto the mat.

Tips and Notes: Lifeline, or similar products, send alarm messages if help is

needed. Some newer versions have motion sensors which provide

the family or a caregiver more information, for example: the

caregiver will know if a person has remained in bed all morning.

Smart Alarm Mat

The Smart alarm mat is used in conjunction with an

alarm device. This mat can be placed next to a bed

and when the individual steps or moves onto the mat,

an alarm will sound to alert a caregiver.

(Image to left)


Universal Design is the way in which a home or other environment is modified to make it more

accessible. Consider contacting the Iowa Program for Assistive Technology or Easterseals Iowa

Assistive Technology Center to obtain a copy of the booklet, or visit

https://www.iowaat.org/udbooklet.

Tips and Notes: There are many pieces of durable medical equipment that may

increase the safety and independence of a person. These can

include walkers, wheelchairs, and grabbers, to name a few.

An Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist can assist in

identifying an appropriate device. Easterseals Iowa Assistive

Technology Program may be an option to access a used device for

a nominal fee.

Additional Notes on Safety:

Practical Guide to Universal Home Design

The Practical Guide to Universal Home Design

a booklet available through the Easterseals

Iowa Assistive Technology Program website,

provides tips for making your home more

accessible. (Image to left)


Health Help

Healthy diet is important to overall health and wellness. Using the My-Plate approach, an

individual may eat appropriately portioned meals for each food group. Allowing an individual to

eat independently by finding appropriate eating utensils, such as built-up grip forks, spoons,

and knives, is an important step in independence and may encourage a healthy diet.

Pedometers and talking pedometers can be used to measure the number of steps taken. The

Fitbit flex and Garmin Vivofit devices will track steps taken and distance moved, these devices

will track distance moved from wrist movement so they will work for individuals that utilize

manual wheelchairs. Apps can also be used to track distance moved to promote activities

outdoors, some use a GPS system on a smart phone and can track distance moved in a power

wheelchair.

My Plate

My plate is a plate that visually shows the size

and portion of each food group including fruits,

grains, vegetables, and protein. (Image to left)

Talking Pedometer

The Talking Pedometer will measure

the number of steps taken and will

speak the number aloud at the press

of a button. The Talking Pedometer

also has a panic alarm that sounds

when a peg is removed from the

bottom. (Image to left)


Emotions and Mood

Breathing and other relaxation techniques may be used as self-calming in response to a certain

mood or emotion. “Memoves” is an app that may help users self-calm by mirroring the

movements of another person demonstrated on a video clip that is watched on a cell phone,

iPad, or computer. Other self-calming techniques:

Breathing deeply is a way to help relax the body and the mind. Attempt to breath from

the abdomen, making the stomach move out with a breath in.

Muscle relaxation can be combined with deep breathing to reduce stress or to help

someone fall asleep.

Meditation is used to quiet the mind and redirect emotions. There are many variations

of meditation.

Journaling involves writing down or recording daily activities, experiences, emotions, or

thoughts. It may help with memory or help emotions and mood.

Smart phone or tablet apps may help an individual access breathing techniques and learn when

to use them. The chart below is meant as a starting point for what’s available. Please view the

“There’s an App for that” section for instruction on how to search for apps.

Additional Notes:

Webber Emotion Cards

Emotion cards may help an individual

identify their feelings by comparing their

reflection to an illustration or photo card.

(Image to left)


Supporting Socialization

Emotion cards or conversation cubes may be used to support appropriate demeanor and

conversation. In situations where identification of emotions displayed by others is difficult,

there are educational devices for support.

Visually seeing an individual is a comfort that distance can often prevent. If phone

conversations are difficult, “Facetime” or Skype using web cameras may be used so that

individuals can see one another. It may be beneficial to see an individual’s face to recognize

them or make the conversation easier to follow.

Conversation Cubes

Conversation cubes are dice shaped foam blocks,

approximately 2 inches by 2 inches on each side.

These blocks can be rolled and then the question on

the side that is up can be read. These questions can

aid discussion about appropriate conversations.

(Image to left)

Logitech Web Camera

Logitech web camera connects to

a computer with a USB port if a

computer does not have a built in

camera. This camera can be used

in conjunction with many

applications such as Zoom or

Skype, to communicate.

(Image to left)


Inclusive Recreation

Adaptive gardening tools, that have ergonomic or long reach handles, may be utilized to allow

individuals to comfortably garden or perform yardwork. Garden scooters may also be used to

limit the impact of bending over.

There are many ways to change an activity or game enjoyed at one time, to make it possible to

enjoy again post injury. Many video games can be controlled by voice, ramps can be used for

bowling or bocce ball, there are adapted golf carts for golfing without leaving the cart, beeper

balls to allow a person to hear a ball without visually seeing it, automatic card shufflers, and

board games come in various styles to enjoy with friends and family.

Radius Ergo-Garden Trowel

The Radius ergo-garden tools have curved

handles that may reduce wrist injury when

gardening or performing yardwork.

(Image to left)

EZ View Playing Card and Playing

Card Holder

Large print playing cards can be

used in conjunction with a playing

card holder and may allow the

user freedom from holding the

cards and the ability to see the

number, color, and suite. (Image

to left)


Tips and Notes: Iowa has many resources for individuals with disabilities to access

recreational activities. The following resources are not intended to

be all inclusive. This is only meant to be a starting point for

research on activities that are desired. Consult with a medical

practitioner to ensure it is safe to participate in specific physical

activities.

Additional Notes and Conversations about Recreation:

All Ability Cycles, LLC. www.allabilitycycles.com (515) 386-8900

Adaptive Sports Iowa www.adaptivesportsiowa.org 888-777-8881 ext. 115

SportAbility of Iowa www.sportabilityofiowa.org 1-319-396-3081


Computer Access

Ergonomic devices may be used with a computer to ensure appropriate positioning and avoid

injury. Ergonomic devices can include split keyboards, glare reduction screen covers, wrist rests,

and alternate navigation systems.

Adaptive devices may be used with a computer to make the actions easier. One-handed

keyboards allow the user to type with the use of only one hand, voice-to-text software allows

the user to type with voice commands, and hands free navigations, such as SmartNav

navigation system, allow the use to move the cursor through movement of the head.

Track Ball Mouse

A trackball mouse reduces strain on the wrist by

allowing the cursor to be manipulated by the

movement of the thumb. (Image to left)

SmartNav

SmartNav navigation system recognizes and

responds to the movement of a reflective dot

placed on glasses or a hat, the movement of the

dot will move the cursor on the computer.

(Image to left)


Accessibility settings such larger text or cursor arrows, text-to-speech and speech-to-text or

color adjustments, are available on many newer computers. These setting options allow the

user to set preferences for increased accessibility of the computer. When shopping for a

computer, it is a good idea to ask the vendor about the type of accessibility settings available on

the various models of computers.

Tips and Notes: Mac computers and IOS devices have built in speech-to-text and

text-to-speech functions. Some computer models and programs

may have features that better meet a specific needs than another

model or program. This technology is continually changing and

upgrading. Many stores can demonstrate the various models and

features their staff can provide suggestions on the specific model

and programs that may support the computer access specific to

the end user.

Additional Notes on Computer Access and Technology:

Visual Settings on Computer

The HP Pro Desk-top

computer allows users to

adjust the visual display from

smaller, medium, to larger.

(Image to left)


“There’s an app for that”

Apps on smartphones, tablets, and televisions have grown in popularity over the past several

years. These apps may make the use of many devices and daily activities easier. Apps are

continuously changing in features and price, therefore this section will instruct the user how to

search for apps to meet their individual needs.

How to “search” in the

app store.

Once the “store” is

found on the device,

search for applications

to meet a specific need.

What is the app store?

The app store is a location on a smart device that will lead to a database of applications

available for download. Android may use a different name such as the “play store”.

Android

Example

iPhone

Example


Search Box

Use the “search” box to type a keyword.

The blue arrow is used below to show what the search

box might look like on an Android or Apple device.

Android

Example

iPhone

Example


Once the search is activated by clicking various results or options will pop up

and allow the user review the price and rating of specific apps. There may be a list of reviews

from other users that rate and comment on the app to say that it worked or didn’t work.

Remember to read some of these reviews before paying for and downloading an app to make

sure it will meet the needs of the user or for deciding between similar apps.

Keyword

Pick a keyword based on the function or task that is needed from the app. Some examples

might include: communication, medication management, health monitoring, or reminders.

iPhone

Example

Android

Example


Where to go from here It may seem difficult to get ideas from paper into action but there are people around the state

who can help.

Schools: Talk to teachers, school counselor, or a consultant from the Area Education Agency

about the creation of an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 Plan that includes the

use of AT in the classroom. For support during post-secondary schooling, contact the Student

Disability Coordinator. This contact information should be available by contacting the main

phone number or website for the school.

Work: Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation helps people with disabilities get and keep jobs. They may

be able to help advocate for the accommodations needed to do a job more effectively.

Similarly, many organizations have a human resources staff who can assist with ensuring that

needed accommodations are made when requested. Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation can be

contacted at 1-800-532-1486 (Toll Free) or 515-281-4211 (V/TTY).

Peers: There are online and in person support groups that will provide the chance to talk to

someone who has been in a similar situation and discuss things that were helpful for them.

Organizations: IowaCompass, the Brain Injury Alliance of Iowa, and the Easterseals Iowa

Assistive Technology Program have staff and supports available to help brainstorm ideas,

connect with resources, or try out AT. Depending on an individual’s limitations, other agencies

may be applicable to the situation such as the Iowa School for the Deaf, or the Iowa

Department for the Blind.

Iowa Advisory Council on Brain Injuries

The Advisory Council on Brain Injuries’ mission

is to represent individuals with brain injury,

their families, and all Iowans through

advocacy, education, training, rehabilitation,

research and prevention.

http://idph.iowa.gov/brain-injuries/advisory-

council-on-brain-injuries (Website)

[email protected] (Email)

515-281-8465 (Phone)


Brain Injury Alliance of Iowa

Easterseals Iowa Assistive Technology Center

Easterseals Iowa Assistive Technology Center

has a variety of items, including many of the

examples provided throughout the booklet,

available for a 30 day trial loan or for

demonstration.

Easterseals Assistive Technology Center supports

Iowans with disabilities by providing a

Demonstration Center located at Camp

Sunnyside, a Durable Medical Equipment Loan

Program, and a Lending Library of devices.

www.eastersealsia.org/at (Website)


515-309-2394 (Phone) or

1-866-866-8782 (toll free)

515-289-4069 (TTY)

The Brain Injury Alliance has a staff of

certified brain injury specialists who are

available to all Iowans impacted by brain

injury.

www.biaia.org (Website)


1-855-444-6443 (Phone)


Notes:


Notes:

Documents

Assistive Technology for People with Brain Injury...2 Solutions: Assistive Technology Introduction: How to use this booklet This is not an ‘all inclusive’ manual for assistive